Outemu Ocean vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Ocean, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Silent White, a linear switch. The Ocean switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying physical confirmation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent White switch is renowned for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. While the Ocean switch is categorized as tactile, offering a pronounced bump during actuation, the Silent White switch falls into the linear category, providing a smoother keystroke without any tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Ocean and the Outemu Silent White, one can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing. However, while the top housing material remains consistent between the two switches, the bottom housing material differs. The Ocean features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Meanwhile, the Silent White also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile.
Despite the similarities in the polycarbonate top housing between the Outemu Ocean and the Outemu Silent White, the difference in bottom housing materials provides a slight contrast in sound profiles. The Ocean's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the Silent White's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches allows for a nuanced typing experience, where the qualities of each housing material can be felt in different aspects of keypresses. While both switches offer a clear and resonant sound due to their polycarbonate top housing, the nylon bottom housing adds a layer of depth and uniqueness to the typing experience.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Outemu Ocean and the Outemu Silent White play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. The utilization of polycarbonate for the top housing results in a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, enhancing the typing experience, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The difference in bottom housing materials, with the Ocean and Silent White both opting for nylon, creates subtle variations in sound profiles, with the Ocean offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Silent White. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the top and bottom housing materials working together to create unique sound profiles for users to enjoy.
Weight
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Silent White linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Ocean switch is unknown, while the Silent White switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Silent White switch requires more force to fully press the key all the way down compared to the Ocean switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent White switch may be more suitable, as it has a lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Ocean switch may be preferred by those who like a bit more resistance while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Outemu Silent White linear switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Ocean offers a deeper press, which some may find more satisfying and comfortable for typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Silent White provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in quicker response times, preferred by many gamers. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, but ultimately will provide similar results in terms of functionality.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Ocean and Silent White.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch is known for its smooth and tactile typing experience, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. It is particularly favored by those who enjoy the feeling of feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White linear switch is known for its quiet and smooth typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle and gentle keystroke. The Ocean switch produces a more pronounced sound due to its tactile nature, while the Silent White switch is designed to minimize noise.
When it comes to sound, the Ocean switch emits a noticeable click with each keystroke, providing an auditory confirmation of your typing. In contrast, the Silent White switch produces a more muted sound, making it ideal for environments where noise may be a concern.
In terms of feel, the Ocean switch offers a tactile sensation with a noticeable bump during actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Silent White switch provides a smooth and linear experience, with no tactile bump, allowing for a more fluid typing experience that some users may prefer.
Overall, choosing between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a satisfying bump and audible click, the Ocean switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Silent White switch would be more suitable. It's important to consider both sound and feel preferences when deciding on the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a light typing experience with no bottom out force and enjoy a unique typing feel, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent White linear switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience, sound, and feel. Consider these factors carefully when making your choice between the two switches.
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